Al's Drive-In
2907 U.S.-90,
Bonifay,
FL
32425
2907 U.S.-90,
Bonifay,
FL
32425
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A closer address is 2907 US-90, Bonifay, FL.
Google Maps has updated their addresses. This puts it right on the property.
Apart from the faint outline and ramps, there is nothing remaining of the drive-in. The building that stands where the projector booth/concession stand once stood may be the same one. But this structure has a gable roof. So, it might have been rebuilt or it might be new.
https://tinyurl.com/3chcpmt5
A 1984 aerial shows the drive in intact, but it may have been closed as several trucks/containers (hard to tell) are sitting near the entrance.
By 1994, the screen was gone.
Sold as a “drive in movie location” in 2020, that is the definition of “technically true”.
Also, the property was sold as a “drive-in movie location” in May 2020. The asking price had been $225k. More details and a video at this Facebook page.
Looks like Joe Vogel nailed the opening year.
Boxoffice, June 20, 1953: “Bonifay, Ala. (sic) - Al’s New Drive-In opened here recently. It is owned by Al Saunders.”
This drive-in must have opened before 1955. An item datelined Bonifay, Fla., in the January 17, 1953 issue of Boxoffice said “Al Saunders has installed new Century equipment in his 250-car Al’s Drive-In here”.
Approx. address is Hwy 90 and Henry Grey.
The last time I saw this drive in, the poles for the marquee were still standing and the concession projection building was still intact. Cows were grazing on the lot.
I have uploaded an aerial photo from 1966.
Looks like it’s been gone awhile.
US 90, west of town:
View link
You think so ken mc.
He was probably the Al in Al’s Drive-In.
In 1956 it parked 175 cars and was owned by A.C. Saunders.